On Friday we had an orientation for our volunteers, after which, we begin setting up and decorating. This time we were able to have all things completed by about 9 pm. The list of volunteers was filled with people of all ages and backgrounds. There were JROTC cadets, National Honor Society members, civic groups and some people with disabilities who wanted to volunteer, rather than attend. The most touching moment came when a lady walked in with a bunch of little ones aging about 6-12 marching behind her. They announced they were there to help- and the did. They all went straight to work, putting on chair covers, putting luminaries up the stairs of the stage and helping to put on table clothes and lay out napkins. I asked the obvious, where did they came from and how did they know we needed help? It seems that one of the churches sending volunteers sponsors a cottage where these kids who are in the foster care system. They thought that the idea of them helping others would be a good project. The kids asked questions, worked hard and left knowing that they would not see any of their hard work in action. I made a note to myself that after everything was done, these kids had a pizza and ice cream party coming their way!
A few weeks before, I had gone into a local restaurant and asked if I could get a discount on 50 lbs of mashed potatoes. I was asked to wait while they got the chef. By the time he reached me he knew that I was there to ask for something. He reached out his hand and said hello, then had the amazingly warm look on his face. He said, "What do you need?" I answered, "we would like to purchase 50 lbs of mashed potatoes for our dance and, if we could get a discounted price that would help even more." His eyes met my serious face and then he gave me this big smile and said, "You got it! What else do you need?" I told him that was it and I walked out with this incredible feeling of warmth because a man I never met, just gave us 50 lbs of mashed potatoes to help make the evening great for our guests!
This was only one of many good deeds from the community. I can't help but think that there was so much more in that evening then just providing a special event for some very special people. It was an awesome chance to see many diversities at work in a happy and loving way. We had a very well known local weatherman come in a greet our guests, the mascot of our Tampa Bay Rays, Raymond made an appearance, dancing with our guests and taking selfies with them, the lady "pirates" of the local Krewe came to visit. Before leaving weatherman Denis told me we could count on him again next year. The Krewe hugged and kisses us all and even offered to do a fundraiser for us next year. I had already been told that we could count on Raymond's visit as long as we had our dance.
Next year, we need to find a bigger place. We had to turn away about 30 people because we were filled to capacity. We are already searching and hoping to find that perfect venue.
The reason for a piggy back blog about the Night of a Thousand Stars Event this month, for me, is to just give you all the chance to hear about how special and unique our kids are and what incredible things they are able to bring and accomplish. So many of my volunteer's hearts were touched by the joy, happiness and laughter within that room. What is so wonderful is that it is so easy. You share your caring and you get back huge amounts of gratification and joy! I cannot wait until next year! P.S. As of yesterday, 11/11/2014, we have established our non-profit Night of a Thousand Stars Foundation, Inc. It is our hope that we are able to not only bring this very special event to our area but increase our Foundation to offer, advocacy, education, awareness, information and events not only relevant the special needs community but, to to promote togetherness for everyone!
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